When summer hits and markets burst with colorful squash, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen!
Whether you’re grilling out, hosting brunch, or just whipping up a quick family dinner, summer squash is your golden ticket to fresh, easy meals.
Today, I’m sharing 20 exciting squash recipes that are easy, flavorful, and perfect for Pinterest saves. Ready to turn your kitchen into a sunshine wonderland? Let’s dive in!
1. Squash Casserole Recipe
Creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery crumbs, this squash casserole is a summer classic that wins every potluck. Start by slicing fresh yellow squash and sautéing it lightly with sweet onions.
Mix the tender veggies with sour cream, shredded cheddar, and a handful of seasonings. Transfer to a baking dish and crown the top with crushed buttery crackers for that iconic crunch.
Bake at 350°F until golden and bubbly. This dish is cozy without being heavy, making it a perfect side for grilled meats or a simple weeknight dinner. If you want a little extra zing, toss in a pinch of paprika or a few red pepper flakes for a tiny kick!
2. Acorn Squash Recipe
Acorn squash is sweet, nutty, and a breeze to cook — even in the heat of summer!
Quick How-To:
- Prep: Cut squash in half, scoop out seeds.
- Season: Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Roast: Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 30–35 minutes.
- Finish: Flip, add a drizzle of maple syrup, and return to the oven for 5 minutes.
You get golden, caramelized squash that’s fantastic as a side or even a meatless main course. Top it with toasted pecans for a little crunch, or stuff it with quinoa for a wholesome, filling meal!
3. Patty Pan Squash Recipe
Patty pan squash might just be the cutest veggie you’ll meet. Its flying saucer shape hides tender, buttery flesh that soaks up flavor like a dream.
Start by slicing them in half or quarters, depending on size. Toss the pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Then grill or roast at high heat until lightly charred and fork-tender.
The trick is not to overcook patty pans are at their best when they still have a slight bite. They’re fantastic served alongside grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or tossed over a vibrant salad.
Plus, kids love their funky shape it’s a sneaky way to get veggies onto their plates!
4. Squash Soup Recipe
A light, silky squash soup is perfect for warm nights when you want something cozy but not too heavy.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow squash | 4 medium | Sliced thin |
| Onion | 1 large | Chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Heavy cream | ¼ cup | Optional for richness |
Simple Directions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in a splash of olive oil.
- Add squash and broth; simmer 15 minutes.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
A swirl of basil pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top takes this simple soup to a whole new level!
5. Kabocha Squash Recipe
Kabocha squash, often called Japanese pumpkin, is dense, sweet, and incredibly versatile. Slice it into wedges no need to peel the thin skin!
Toss the wedges with olive oil, sea salt, and a hint of cinnamon for a warm, earthy flavor. Roast them in a hot oven at 375°F for about 25 minutes, flipping once midway for even caramelization.
The result? Golden brown slices with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center. Serve alongside teriyaki chicken or pile them into grain bowls for a satisfying plant-based dinner.
If you want an extra treat, drizzle a little miso glaze over the top after roasting. It’s magic!
6. Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Spaghetti squash is nature’s pasta low-carb, fun, and perfect for soaking up sauces!
Here’s the quick and easy method:
- Cut the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Brush with olive oil and roast face-down at 400°F for 35–40 minutes.
- Once tender, scrape the inside with a fork to reveal noodle-like strands.
Toss the “spaghetti” with marinara sauce, a handful of fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also go creamy with Alfredo or spicy with arrabbiata!
Spaghetti squash turns a heavy pasta night into a light, guilt-free dinner that feels just as comforting. Kids love it too especially when you call it “magic noodles!”
7. Butternut Squash Recipe
Think butternut squash is just for cozy fall soups? Think again!
In summer, roasted butternut squash becomes the star of fresh, vibrant salads.
Summer Butternut Salad Idea:
- Cube the squash into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Combine with arugula, goat cheese, cranberries, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle with a honey-balsamic vinaigrette.
The mix of sweet, savory, and tangy makes this salad a total showstopper for picnics and cookouts!
8. Squash Blossom Recipe
Squash blossoms are a summer delicacy bright, delicate, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Here’s a simple way to enjoy them:
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gently rinse blossoms | Be careful — they’re fragile! |
| 2 | Stuff with herbed ricotta | Use a piping bag if you can. |
| 3 | Lightly batter and fry | Quick fry until golden, about 2 minutes. |
Serve hot with a sprinkle of flaky salt. Each bite is creamy, crispy, and packed with fresh garden flavor. Honestly? They taste like tiny clouds of cheesy happiness!
9. Squash Fritters Recipe
Craving something crispy but still packed with veggies? You need to make squash fritters!
Start by shredding yellow squash and squeezing out excess moisture with a clean towel.
Mix the squash with:
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup Parmesan
- A sprinkle of salt and pepper
Heat oil in a pan, scoop little mounds of batter, and flatten slightly. Fry until both sides are golden and crispy.
They’re addictively good you’ll need a second batch before you know it!
Serve with sour cream, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.
10. Summer Squash Pasta
This easy summer pasta brings garden freshness to the table in minutes!
How to make it:
- Boil your favorite pasta (spaghetti or linguine work great).
- While pasta cooks, sauté thin slices of squash and zucchini in olive oil with minced garlic.
- Toss cooked pasta with the sautéed veggies, olive oil, a splash of pasta water, and a generous amount of grated Parmesan.
- Finish with fresh basil leaves and lemon zest.
The result? Light, lemony pasta that tastes like summer sunshine in a bowl!
11. Grilled Summer Squash Skewers
Need a fast, colorful side for your BBQ nights? Grilled squash skewers are a must-try.
- First, cut yellow squash and zucchini into thick chunks.
- Next, thread onto skewers along with bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes.
Brush generously with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Grill over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes per side until charred and tender.
Serving Tip: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot skewers before serving for a bright, fresh finish!
12. Squash and Zucchini Stir-Fry
Fast, fresh, and endlessly versatile squash stir-fry is your answer for busy weeknights!
Quick Cooking Steps:
- Heat a wok or large skillet with sesame oil.
- Add thinly sliced zucchini and yellow squash.
- Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Splash with soy sauce and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for heat.
- Optional: toss in shrimp or tofu for a protein boost!
Serve over steamed jasmine rice or pile into lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
Ready in under 10 minutes faster than takeout!
13. Baked Parmesan Summer Squash
Want an easy side that feels fancy but is actually effortless? Baked Parmesan squash will be your go-to!
Here’s how:
- Slice yellow squash into ¼-inch rounds.
- Arrange slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
- Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until crispy and golden.
The crispy cheese edges are seriously addictive! Serve them like chips with marinara sauce for dipping. Great for parties or late-night snacking!
14. Summer Squash Gratin
If you love cheesy casseroles but want something lighter for summer, squash gratin is your answer.
Start with layering:
- Thinly sliced yellow squash
- A creamy béchamel sauce
- Lots of shredded mozzarella
Repeat layers until the dish is full, then sprinkle extra cheese on top. Bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
Every scoop is creamy, cheesy, and packed with garden-fresh flavor. Serve it with grilled steak or roasted chicken for a truly satisfying summer dinner.
15. Summer Squash Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Fresh, crisp, and a little bit fancy — this raw squash salad is summer in a bowl.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow squash | 2 medium | Use a vegetable peeler for ribbons |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed is best |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Good quality |
| Parmesan | To taste | Shaved, not grated |
| Herbs | A handful | Basil, mint, or parsley |
Toss everything lightly in a bowl and serve immediately.
The lemony vinaigrette makes the squash ribbons sing with flavor — bright, zesty, and refreshing!
16. Squash Tacos
Tired of the same taco fillings? Squash tacos bring a fun and colorful twist to the table!
Simply:
- Dice yellow squash and sauté with taco seasoning until tender.
- Warm soft tortillas.
- Pile in the seasoned squash, avocado slices, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of lime crema.
Top with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro if you have it.
It’s a meatless taco dream!
Fast, flavorful, and so satisfying that even meat-lovers will be grabbing seconds.
17. Zesty Squash and Corn Bake
If summer had a taste, it would be squash and sweet corn baked into cheesy bliss!
How to whip it up:
- Sauté diced squash and fresh corn kernels in butter until just softened.
- Mix with shredded cheddar and a beaten egg.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
You’ll end up with a fluffy, cheesy, golden-brown bake that’s perfect for backyard BBQs.
The sweetness of the corn and tenderness of the squash are pure magic together!
18. Summer Squash Pizza
Pizza night gets a fresh, garden-inspired upgrade with summer squash!
Here’s a quick pizza plan:
- Roll out pizza dough or use a flatbread.
- Spread a thin layer of olive oil and garlic.
- Top with very thin slices of yellow squash and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 450°F until golden.
- Finish with torn basil leaves and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
The squash becomes lightly caramelized and blends perfectly with the melty cheese.
It’s colorful, flavorful, and way lighter than your usual pizza slice!
19. Summer Squash Slaw
Who says slaw always needs cabbage? Swap it out for fresh, crunchy summer squash for a colorful, refreshing twist.
Quick How-To:
- Shred yellow squash and zucchini using a box grater.
- Toss with shredded carrots and thinly sliced red onion.
- Mix in a dressing made of mayo, apple cider vinegar, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper.
Let it chill for about 30 minutes to soak in all that flavor.
This squash slaw is perfect for topping pulled pork sandwiches, stuffing into tacos, or serving as a bright, crunchy side dish at your next BBQ. Plus, it stays crisp and colorful even after hours in the sun the ultimate summer party bonus!
20. Stuffed Summer Squash Boats
Say hello to your new favorite dinner idea: stuffed squash boats!
It’s simple, satisfying, and super customizable.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Slice squash in half and hollow out the centers. |
| 2 | Fill with cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, salsa, and shredded cheese. |
| 3 | Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until heated through and melty. |
You can swap the filling ingredients easily: try taco meat, leftover chicken, or a Mediterranean twist with olives and feta.
Squash boats are a one-stop meal loaded with flavor, protein, and all the colors of summer!
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Summer One Squash at a Time
Summer squash is the ultimate blank canvas sweet, tender, and ready to soak up any flavors you throw its way.
From creamy casseroles to zesty tacos and fresh salads, there’s no end to the delicious dishes you can whip up with this humble veggie.
No matter how you slice, roast, or grill it, summer squash makes every meal taste like sunshine. ☀️🍴
Now go on — grab some squash and let’s make something amazing tonight!
Ella Foster, co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a skilled writer whose love for cooking fuels her creative work. Her passion for experimenting in the kitchen brings authentic flavor and culinary inspiration to every piece she crafts for the platform.
